“We are proud of it here. And in few places is the story of Flanders told as beautifully as in Bruges,” says Weyts. “The whole world knows this beautiful Flemish city. We must cherish and preserve this asset. That is why we are investing today in three unique monuments that give Bruges color.”
For example, Weyts makes 342,000 euros available for the Almshouse for poor women in Peperstraat. The house is part of the roof of the Jerusalem Church, has 6 small residential units and houses the Adornes Museum about the role of the Adornes family in 15th century Bruges and in particular about diplomat, trader and pilgrim Anselm Adornes.
Different phases
In concrete terms, the museum and the Almshouse itself are now being renovated: in an initial phase, the masonry and natural stone are being worked on, carpentry work is being done on the roof structure and beam grilles, and roofing and zinc work is being carried out. The carpentry will follow in the second phase, together with the interior works and the facade and painting works. The total cost is 535,800 euros, of which Flanders will pay 64%. Owner non-profit organization Adornes is responsible for the other costs.
Two houses
The minister is also releasing 83,600 euros for a town house in Katelijnestraat and 84,000 euros for a 17th century town house in Steenstraat with a characteristic stepped gable from 1570. “Bruges is our best-known sign abroad: they know the city all over the world,” says Weyts. “Flemish people also naturally become proud of this place when they wander through the city center. We are therefore happy to invest in Bruges’ heritage, so that many generations of Flemish people and visitors can experience the Story of Flanders in Bruges.”